Holiday Handbook: Give yourself the gift of self care. A guide on How to destress during the holidays.

Here we are, in the midst of the holiday “hustle”. Schedules are packed with gift shopping, party prepping, extra family gatherings, on top of the normal day to day. It’s easy to feel like there are no minutes to spare to enjoy the “most wonderful time of the year”, let alone make time for yourself. but I’m here to remind you that making time for yourself is essential to avoid the holiday burnout.

You know the famous saying: “self care isn’t selfish” but it’s important to see the truth in that statement. You are worthy of taking time to give our mind a body the opportunity to decompress, relax and avoid the burnout response that comes with staying in an overworked state for too long.

So how do you make it happen when there isn’t enough time in the day? Here are my five favorite quick and easy self care practices.

1. Stay Hydrated & Nourished

Water helps boost energy and flushes toxins from your system, among other things. When we don’t drink enough water, we can feel downright crummy! When not attending holiday gatherings, make eating whole foods a priority so your body can produce the energy you need for all the activities and it’ll keep you from feeling sluggish.

2. Get enough sleep

It may be tempting to clock some late nights shopping, wrapping gifts, celebrating, and cooking/baking, but adequate sleep is critical for us to feel our best in mind, body, and spirit and help keep our immune system strong. Set an alarm on your phone an hour before bed time to start winding down.

3. Move your body mindfully

Movement doesn’t have to be a 60 minute cardio class. Take a walk, stretch or other movement that makes you feel good. Movement is an energy outlet and can help work out anxious or stressful energy, but also it releases endorphins to increase your mood & energy.

4. Do something you enjoy.

Schedule time to do things YOU enjoy. Be it alone or with a friend or partner. This could be as simple as watching a christmas movie. A time for you to turn off the to do list in your brain and fill your cup. My personal favorite is taking a bath with my favorite CBD bathbombs from Joy Organics while watching a show on Netflix or reading my book.

Pause & Take a few breaths.

Even just a few minutes of deep breathing can help keep you calm and grounded throughout your day, and it’s one of the easiest ways to get started with being intentional about self care